How Many Volcanoes Are in Iceland?

How Many Volcanoes Are in Iceland?

How Many Volcanoes Are in Iceland? Iceland is home to approximately 130 volcanoes, both active and dormant, scattered across its dramatic landscape. Located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, Iceland is one of the most volcanically active countries in the world.

About 30 of these volcanoes are currently active, meaning they’ve erupted in the last few centuries — with some showing signs of future activity.

How Many Volcanoes Are in Iceland?

Famous Volcanoes in Iceland

1. Eyjafjallajökull

Perhaps the most infamous volcano globally, Eyjafjallajökull erupted in 2010, disrupting air traffic across Europe. It’s glacier-covered, powerful, and a common stop on South Coast tours.

2. Katla

Just east of Eyjafjallajökull, Katla lies under the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. It’s one of Iceland’s most powerful volcanoes and is considered overdue for an eruption.

3. Hekla

Nicknamed the “Gateway to Hell” in medieval Europe, Hekla has erupted over 20 times since 874 AD. Its frequent activity and layered appearance make it a staple in geological studies.

4. Askja

Located in the remote central highlands, Askja is a volcanic caldera known for Víti, a warm, geothermal crater lake that travelers often hike to.

5. Grímsvötn

Hidden beneath Vatnajökull glacier, Grímsvötn is Iceland’s most frequently erupting volcano. Its eruptions often occur subglacially, creating dramatic flood events.

6. Fagradalsfjall

One of Iceland’s most recent and accessible eruptions occurred here in 2021 and again in 2022 and 2023. Located near Reykjavík, Fagradalsfjall became a massive draw for travelers wanting to hike near active lava.

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Types of Volcanoes in Iceland

Iceland’s geology features several volcano types, including:

• Stratovolcanoes: Tall, conical, and layered — like Hekla and Katla.

• Shield Volcanoes: Broad and low-profile, like Skjaldbreiður, formed by fluid lava.

• Subglacial Volcanoes: Like Grímsvötn, erupting beneath ice sheets and glaciers.

• Fissure Volcanoes: Long cracks that erupt along rifts, such as those seen in the Laki eruption of 1783.

Each type provides a distinct experience — from peaceful hikes to powerful landscapes forged by ancient eruptions.

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Custom Volcano Trips with Juniper

Whether you’re curious about dormant giants or want to hike near freshly cooled lava, Juniper Tours can create a custom Iceland itinerary just for you.

Imagine:

• Trekking the colorful caldera of Askja

• Exploring lava tubes near Fagradalsfjall

• Soaking in geothermal baths formed by ancient eruptions

• Visiting the eerie plains formed by the Laki fissures

You choose your adventure style — we handle the details.